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A team of sixth-grade students from Ocoee Middle School, Molly Withrow, Neriah Gluckner, Emberly Love, and Brylee Sams (pictured left to right), have earned top honors as middle school champions in the TSIN Design Challenge. We are incredibly proud of the way they represented their school, sharing their ideas at each level of the competition with confidence.

Their project focused on creating an environmental monitoring app specifically for Tennessee. They designed an app, Animal Health Care Center, that could track pollution across rivers, forests, and urban areas, collecting real-time data on air, water, and soil conditions. Their goal was to help scientists better understand patterns like seasonal changes, flooding, and pollution trends across the state.

One of the standout features of their idea was an alert system that could notify wildfire officers, local residents, and community leaders when environmental risks arise. They also included warning signals for parks and areas near rivers, along with a dashboard that maps pollution hotspots, water quality, soil health, and wildlife risk zones in a way that’s easy to understand.

What makes their project especially meaningful is the focus bringing communities and scientists together and making important environmental data more accessible. Their idea shows how thoughtful design can help protect wildlife, improve safety, and support better decision-making.

Their achievement highlights not only their creativity and hard work, but also the power of student-driven ideas to inspire real-world solutions.

In August of 2026, Ocoee Middle School officially opened the new academic wing, specifically designed as developmental classrooms. The addition included two state-of-the-art classrooms, restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, kitchen appliances, and office space. In addition to the new classrooms, the existing technology building received several upgrades, including new classroom furniture, window coverings, paint, and lighting, all designed to enhance student experiences in Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes.

"I cannot say thank you enough to Dr. Linda Cash, the Bradley County Commission, and the Bradley County Board of Education for supporting this project. This represents more than a commitment to these amazing students; it is a commitment to promoting a culture of creativity and inclusivity." - Dr. Corey Limburg, Ocoee Middle School Principal

Phase I expansion at Hopewell Elementary consists of 12 classrooms and 2 sets of restrooms. The existing lower building at Hopewell will be torn down and replaced by a new gymnasium and music room complex during Phase II. During Phase III, the current gym will be transformed into our new library/media center, and the cafeteria will be expanded to hold 100 additional students. Hoepwell Elementary has seen steady growth over the past several years and looks forward to serving more students and their families in the years to come.

"This expansion impacts hundreds of students and provides state-of-the-art facilities for students to learn and grow. Our students have witnessed the construction process and have seen many STEAM careers in action on our campus. Hopewell is an exciting place to be!" - Amber Winters, Hopewell Elementary Principal

Park View is a beautiful school, originally built in 2010 with future growth in mind. Today, Park View Elementary is excited to continue that vision with the addition of eight new classrooms—four on each side—allowing Park View Elementary to better serve and accommodate the growing needs of our community.

This building project reflects who Park View is and what they believe: Built for Learning. It aligns seamlessly with the Bradley County mission of Growing Students, Building Futures. And as Park View proudly says, Growing Knights, Building Futures.

"While this addition is an important step forward, we know that a building alone is not what defines a school. What truly makes Park View Elementary special is what lives and breathes within these walls—the teachers and students who fill each day with learning, inspiration, and purpose.This project represents more than expansion; it is a commitment. A commitment to our students, our staff, and a future filled with opportunity. We are building something that will last far beyond these walls. We are building a legacy." - Jodie Grannan, Park View Elementary Principal

Bradley Central High School has been blessed with two recent expansions and one future expansion that will have a significant impact on its campus.  First, the new vestibule provides a secure entryway for the first time in the school’s history.  It consists of an enclosed space for visitors to be screened and is a protective hedge between the community and the school population. A second impactful expansion has been the new baseball field house. The previous facility (a portable trailer which was initially intended to be temporary) had been used for over 25 years.  The new facility has revolutionized the services available to our baseball athletes and coaching staff.  It includes new locker facilities, a team room, shower facilities, and coaches' quarters. It was a true collaboration between our school entities and the community that desires to support our students. Thirdly, we are excited about the upcoming groundbreaking of our Science Wing. 

"Our 1600 students are currently served by a single lab that is over 50 years old. This expansion will add 10 new classrooms & labs to our campus and provide teachers and students with tools for scientific exploration that have never been available in the history of Bradley Central High School.  The impact of these expansions on our campus in the years to come will be immeasurable, and we are profoundly thankful for the investment in our students!" - Patrick Spangler, Bradley Central High School Principal

These projects stand as a testament to Bradley County Schools’ ongoing dedication to providing high-quality facilities that support student achievement. By investing in modern, functional learning spaces, the district is not only meeting the demands of today but also preparing for the opportunities of tomorrow.

Sarah Dodson was a hairstylist for 16 years, frequently volunteering at children’s schools before becoming involved in PTO, eventually serving as president, deepening her connection to education. “Throughout this period, several teachers encouraged me to consider a career in education. At age 30, I enrolled at Cleveland State Community College and officially began my journey. I attended school full-time, continued doing hair on weekends, and remained actively involved in my children’s school. My children’s teachers—who were strong role models for me—consistently offered encouragement and guidance, helping me navigate this new path,” states Mrs. Dodson. 

Mrs. Dodson began her journey believing she would become a kindergarten assistant teacher, but soon realized her calling and changed to a four-year bachelor’s program, and later earned her master’s degree and Education Specialist degree in special education. Mrs. Dodson shares, “Each student I serve is unique and extraordinary. As a special education teacher, I work with students over a three-year period, which allows for deep relationships and meaningful growth. They are more than names on a roster—they become like my own children. Holding them to high expectations also pushes me to hold myself to high standards.” 

Mrs. Dodson shares uplifting advice and guidance to new and upcoming teachers: “Be true to yourself and your purpose. Surround yourself with people who encourage and uplift you rather than those who discourage you. If teaching is important to you, do not be afraid to invest the time and effort required, even when others may not understand. Our students deserve our best, and their success is worth every ounce of dedication we give.”

Principal Stevenson applauds Mrs. Dodson by saying, “Sarah Dodson is truly a blessing to our Lake Forest Staff. Her excitement and kindness are contagious. Mrs. Dodson inspires, challenges, and encourages her students and everyone she comes into contact with. Her creativity is unmatched, designing and implementing engaging programs for students like Bruin Coffee, gardening,g and many other unique learning opportunities. Mrs. Dodson embodies and exemplifies the Lake Forest Bruin spirit. The entire Lake Forest staff is thrilled for Mrs. Dodson to receive this well-deserved honor!” 

Congratulations, Mrs. Dodson, on your outstanding achievement in becoming a District-level teacher for Lake Forrest Middle School!

Mrs. Marie Johnson was inspired by her fourth-grade teacher, who never gave up on her, helped build her confidence, and impacted her in a meaningful way (Mrs. Johnson).  When asked what she loves most about teaching, Mrs. Johnson shared, “I love witnessing those 'aha' moments when learning finally clicks, especially in reading.” Mrs. Johnson reflected that the most rewarding part of her job is “watching students grow, not just academically, but also socially and emotionally, and seeing them realize they can do hard things.” 

Mrs. Johnson encourages new and aspiring teachers with these words of advice: “You are not alone, lean on your team and ask questions often. Teaching is better and easier when you work together and learn from one another. Give grace to your students and yourself. Kindness and patience go a long way and are often remembered long after the lesson. On hard days, remember why you became a teacher. Those moments of impact often show up quietly, but they matter more than you realize.”

Principal Lori Riad spoke highly of Mrs. Johnson, noting, “Mrs. Marie Johnson is the kind of teacher every school hopes for. She creates a fun, engaging classroom where students feel valued, challenged, and supported every single day. She is a true champion for all learners, consistently giving her own time to ensure students grow academically and confidently. Mrs. Johnson also builds strong, trusting relationships with families, keeping them informed and actively involved in their child’s learning journey. Beyond her classroom, she is a leader in our school, generously mentoring colleagues and setting the standard for what excellent teaching looks like. Our school is better because of her.”

Congratulations, Mrs. Marie Johnson for your outstanding achievement in becoming a District- level teacher at North Lee Elementary

As the passionate teacher she is, Mrs. Lindeman offers words of wisdom for student excellence to new and aspiring teachers, sharing, “Never verbalize a consequence that you cannot 100% guarantee follow through. At the same time, hold those kiddos accountable to a high standard. They want to be challenged and engaged, and they crave consistent and clear expectations.” She shares a personal means of teacher success by encouraging teachers to “  Keep every note and write everything down. 9 times out of 10, you will have a wonderful, fulfilling, and successful day. But on that 10th day, it is so important to have reminders of the amazing (and hilarious) students you have met along the way. To mirror that, write the students' notes and encouragements. Even at 15/16 years old, a sticker and/or small, personalized note noticing their achievements goes a long way.” 

Mrs. Lindeman shows her passion for her students by helping guide them with major life changes like getting their driver's license, finding a job, and supporting personal growth (Mrs. Lindeman). This is evident in her personal involvement in co-founding Brittnay’s Kids. Principal Jeremy Jones radiates pride, saying, “ Now in its fourth year, the club leads a school-wide initiative that reaches more than 1,400 students and collaborates with schools across the surrounding region, further reflecting Mrs. Lindeman’s commitment to student growth, safety, and community impact.”

Her significant dedication has left a lasting footprint on her students and fellow faculty. Principal Jones commends her sharing, “Mrs. Lindeman’s impact reaches all learners and extends far beyond the campus of Walker Valley. As an exceptional educator, she has demonstrated consistent success in advancing academic growth for students at every level in English Language Arts. Her ability to build meaningful relationships and create a safe, welcoming environment is especially powerful for students who may initially feel hesitant or resistant toward ELA. Through strong collaboration with her department and the sharing of her classroom expertise, Mrs. Lindeman has helped propel Walker Valley’s ELA program to new levels of achievement, including improved performance on standardized assessments.”

Congratulations, Mrs. Leesa Lindeman, on your outstanding achievement in becoming a District- level teacher at Walker Valley High School!